Synopsis
On February 6, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar announced that the Namma metro fare increase would be determined by a Central committee led by a judge, emphasizing that the government would not intervene. He also addressed water and electricity tariff hikes, as well as future infrastructure projects in Bengaluru.Key Takeaways
- Namma metro fare hikes decided by a Central committee.
- Water tariff increase inevitable after 14 years.
- Plans for double-decker flyovers and beautification initiatives.
- Focus on traffic congestion solutions in Bengaluru.
- Collaborative efforts between BBMP and BMRCL for city improvements.
Bengaluru, Feb 6 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar clarified on Thursday that the government is not involved in the Namma metro fare increase, which will be determined by a Central committee led by a judge.
Shivakumar mentioned in Bengaluru, “A Central committee chaired by a judge has put forth its recommendations. The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMTCL) has also reached a conclusion regarding that, but I will not intervene.”
In response to a question about the water tariff increase, he stated, “The proposal for the water tariff rise will be presented to the Cabinet. Tariff increases have become unavoidable as prices have remained unchanged for 14 years. The BWSSB is suffering a loss of Rs 1,000 crore annually.”
When asked about the electricity tariff increase, he replied, “We had previously lowered the electricity tariff, but the media did not highlight that. Only tariff hikes seem to capture attention.”
Discussing plans for Bengaluru, he stated, “We have resolved to concentrate on constructing double-decker flyovers, alleviating traffic congestion, and enhancing the city's aesthetics. During an inspection with the BBMP Chief Commissioner, BMRCL, and BDA Commissioner, we deliberated on constructing flyovers, underpasses, and tunnel roads at locations like Hebbala, Gorguntepalya, BEL, Lottegollanahalli, and Sumanahalli.”
He added, “We have directed officials to survey these areas and develop a proposal. I personally visited these sites to identify bottlenecks. We also discussed the necessity for land acquisition. I instructed officials to expand parking facilities at new metro stations as people are currently parking on the roadside to access the metro.”
He noted that a double-decker flyover would be mandatory for the third phase of the metro.
“It has been agreed that BBMP and BMRCL will collaborate on the beautification of the city under the Brand Bengaluru initiative. Furthermore, advertising on metro pillars will be permitted, with revenue shared equally between the two agencies,” he mentioned.
“Officials have been instructed to develop an alternative route on the BDA land near the Hebbal flyover in Bengaluru. They are to complete the work by April 30 and open it to the public by May. The BDA, BBMP, and BMRCL have been directed to collaborate on constructing an underpass at the Hebbal flyover on the Tumakuru-KR Puram road. A report detailing the funds required for these projects will be submitted to the CM for inclusion in the budget,” he clarified.
When asked about the length of the double-decker flyover along metro lines, he stated: “We will construct double-decker flyovers on all new metro lines. The plan includes building 40 kilometers of such flyovers. The BBMP and BMRCL will share the expenses for these flyovers, which will cost approximately Rs 9,800 crore.”
When questioned about whether the Greater Bengaluru project would be announced in the state budget, he said: “The Law Minister informed me that the Cabinet has approved the establishment of a township in Bidadi. We have already sought public suggestions and gathered feedback from all Bengaluru MLAs.”
When asked about his vision for Bengaluru, he expressed, “The world is observing Bengaluru, yet it lacks proper planning. My aspiration is to transform it into a planned city. I envision a city of the future that is superior.”
Addressing the rising opposition to tunnel road projects, he remarked, “Criticism is an inherent part of public life. Quality work will endure, and criticism will fade.”
